Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid has revealed the Government of Saudi Arabia has decided to grant on-arrival visa for Maldivians visiting the country.
Speaking at a press conference today, Foreign Minister Shahid revealed the Saudi Government has decided to facilitate on-arrival visa for Maldivians. Noting Maldivians travel to Saudi Arabia for very important purposes, the minister said the decision of the Saudi government will provide ease for all Maldivians travelling to the country. He added the decision indicates the strong ties of friendship that exist between the two countries.
The decision by the Saudi government will enable Maldivians to apply online for an e-Visa before beginning the trip to Saudi Arabia or to apply for visa on-arrival at the airport. Maldivians will be allowed to stay in Saudi Arabia for one month under a single entry on-arrival visa, while a multiple-entry visa will allow Maldivians to spend 90 days in the country over the span of one year. While the visa can be applied for tourists and pilgrims performing Umrah, it cannot be applied for Hajj pilgrimage, studies or medical treatment.
Foreign Minister Shahid also revealed efforts are underway to open the Maldivian consulate in Jeddah this week, having received the necessary permits from the Saudi government. He said the ministry is working with Saudi authorities to open the consulate in Jeddah, assuring its services will be available for the Hajj season this year.
Speaking on the foreign policy of Maldives, the foreign minister revealed Maldivians can now travel to 84 countries without visa. The minister said the foreign policy of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih focuses on strengthening bilateral relations with countries, adding the policy has reaped rewards. He noted the Maldivian passport is, along with its security features, the strongest passport in South Asia.